On April 9, 2026, Nova Hemp had the opportunity to give back to something bigger than ourselves.
We proudly presented a $10,000 donation to the Fauquier Education Farm — an organization that is doing real, hands-on work to support food access, education, and community across Virginia.
Alongside owner Travis Lane, members of the Nova Hemp team were there to support the effort — reinforcing that this wasn’t just a company initiative, but a shared commitment across the entire team.
A Closer Look at the Farm
The day began with an introduction from Executive Director Jim Hankins, who walked us through the mission of the farm, the programs they offer, and how the food grown on-site reaches those who need it most.
From there, we toured the property and greenhouses, gaining a deeper understanding of what it truly takes to keep an operation like this running.
What stood out most wasn’t just the scale of the work — it was the people behind it.
Volunteers from across Virginia — and even beyond — regularly come to the farm to get their hands in the dirt and be part of something meaningful. While the farm is powered largely by volunteers, there are a few dedicated workers whose consistent presence keeps everything moving.
Those individuals are essential.
Where the Donation Goes
Nova Hemp’s donation is going directly toward supporting the core workers who keep the farm operational day in and day out.
Without them, the systems, structure, and consistency required to sustain the farm simply wouldn’t exist.
And the impact?
Every crop grown — whether in the fields or greenhouses — is donated to local food banks, food pantries, and community organizations.
This isn’t just agriculture.
This is community infrastructure.
A Moment of Unity
Following the tour, we gathered for a check presentation and open conversation with community leaders and attendees.
We were honored to have both Michael Webert and John McAuliff in attendance.
While they represent different political parties, one thing was clear: When it comes to agriculture and supporting local communities, there is common ground.
Also in attendance were Rick Crofford, members of the farm’s board, and media coverage from Fauquier Now.
Why This Matters Right Now
As Virginia moves toward an adult-use cannabis market, businesses like Nova Hemp are facing uncertainty.
The current structure — particularly the limited number of licenses distributed through a lottery system — puts established, compliant businesses in a difficult position. Despite years of operating responsibly and contributing to the local economy, the path forward is not guaranteed.
We’ve explored every available option, including microbusiness licensing, but many of these pathways don’t align with the scale or structure of what we’ve built.
Even so, we’re continuing to push forward.
We’re advocating for a future that supports small businesses, recognizes those who have already been doing things the right way, and allows companies like ours to continue serving our communities.
More Than a Donation
This wasn’t just about writing a check.
It was about showing what’s possible when local businesses and community organizations work together.
It was about reinforcing the idea that agriculture — whether traditional or emerging — still plays a vital role in Virginia’s future.
And it was about making sure that, no matter what changes come next, we continue to show up for the communities that have supported us from the beginning.
Looking Ahead
At Nova Hemp, we believe in building something sustainable — both as a business and as part of a larger ecosystem.
If we can continue to give back like this once — or even twice — a year, we will.
Because this is what it’s all about.
The Fauquier Education Farm has some incredible events coming up this year- including their 5K Fun Run, Farm Festival and Feast From The Field. Definitely worth getting out there and being part of it!
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